Transforming Vacant Lots Into Community Assets
Launched in 2021, Terra Firma is a $50 million land care initiative to beautify, maintain, and activate vacant land on Chicago’s mid-South Side. Terra Firma uses vacant land as an engine of opportunity to create jobs, grow small businesses, improve the local environment, and enhance neighbors’ quality of life.
BY THE NUMBERS
102
acres of vacant land stabilized
187
adults and youth employed through a green industry job training program
41
local community gardens supported
2.3
million dollars awarded to local minority contractors
20+
events hosted to celebrate arts and activate 2,000 participants
3
public mural projects completed
Inspiration and Impact
Modeled after the PHS LandCare program, Emerald South’s Terra Firma initiative has improved vacant land conditions, strengthened environmental stewardship practices, contributed to reductions in violent crime in targeted areas, and generated employment and entrepreneurship opportunities for residents.
Working with other local organizations and corporate partners, we have maintained 102 acres of vacant land across 600 parcels in Grand Boulevard, Douglas, Washington Park, Oakland, Kenwood, Woodlawn, Grand Crossing, South Shore, and South Chicago. This comprehensive approach included cutting grass, erecting protective fencing, and supporting 41 local community gardens. We employed 150 residents—50 adults and 100 youth—in green industry job training, with youth participants helping shape program design and community engagement strategies, providing pathways to economic opportunity while beautifying neighborhoods long neglected by traditional development.
Hear from local residents and Emerald South CEO Ghian Foreman about Terra Firma’s impacts. —>
Get Involved with Terra Firma
Explore Request For Proposal Opportunities
View available Terra Firma opportunities for contractors and artists. Apply and get involved with renewing and restoring local public spaces.
Use our vacant land toolkit to understand what options are available to you, get inspiration, and access Chicago-specific resources to aid in your revitalization efforts.
REvitalize your Vacant Land
Want to help us target areas of need? Interested in participating? Give us your thoughts on the connection between you, your community, and the Terra Firma program.
